Week in Review: Dentistry's mental health crisis | U.S. Department of Labor whistleblower case | Price of a baby tooth

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

Our top story of the week covers grim new statistics about the mental health of dental professionals in Australia. Nearly 20% of dental professionals reported considering suicide in the prior 12 months. Commentators believe the statistics would be the same -- or worse -- for dental professionals in the U.S.

If you're struggling with mental health, you can find resources through organizations like Hope For the Day or by calling or texting 988.

Legal news making headlines

A dental practice in Texas and its owners must pay $15,700 in back wages to workers who were illegally fired for raising COVID-19 safety concerns following a whistleblower investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration determined that the doctors discriminated against employees for exercising their right to express concerns about their safety and health.

Another investigation making headlines is that of a Louisiana law firm looking into whether the officers and directors of Dentsply Sirona breached their fiduciary duties to the company's shareholders or otherwise violated state or federal laws. Last year, the company replaced CEO Donald Casey. Dentsply Sirona also recently announced cost-cutting measures.

More from the Chicago Midwinter Meeting

The Chicago Dental Society 2023 Midwinter Meeting may be over, but we're not done covering highlights from the show. Be sure to check out our popular panel discussion with leaders at artificial intelligence companies. You can also hear what attendees thought of the show.

Next week we'll highlight leaders discussing the big issues facing dental practices: staffing, inflation, and insurance. We'll also have more content from the show floor.

What's a baby tooth worth?

How much is a baby tooth worth? The average value of a single lost baby tooth in the U.S. has surged to $6.23, according to the 2023 Original Tooth Fairy Poll conducted by Delta Dental. That's up from $5.36 last year.

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